Once your baby moves on to solids, a whole new world of feeding gear opens up—from plates and bowls to cups and utensils. The kids' tableware industry is huge, and like many children's products, plastic is the go-to material. But don’t worry, there are plenty of plastic-free alternatives that are growing in popularity, particularly those made from bamboo and stainless steel. Each material has its own set of pros and cons, and I’ve done the homework to bring you standout options in both categories.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a fantastic, natural alternative to plastic. It’s fast-growing, chemical-free, and doesn't require pesticides or excessive water to thrive. Plus, it’s 100% biodegradable, making it a super sustainable choice. The downside? Bamboo products are generally not dishwasher safe, and they should never go in the microwave, which can be a challenge for busy families.
1. Bambu Bambu offers beautiful dining options for kids made from whole pieces of bamboo, such as baby bowls and feeding spoons. They focus on eco-friendly and sustainable designs, providing a great introduction to plastic-free dining.
2. Avanchy Avanchy’s bamboo bowls and plates come with silicone bottoms to help them stick to surfaces, making them great for little ones who are still mastering their table manners. They also offer kid-sized bamboo and silicone utensils in a variety of fun colors. You can find their products on their website, with bundle packs available to test out different items.
3. To-Go Ware A brand I personally use and love, To-Go Ware offers bamboo utensil sets that come in handy travel cases. Both my spouse and I carry these in our bags, perfect for meals on the go. They’re dishwasher safe and reusable, so you’ll never need another plastic fork again. To-Go Ware also makes a kid-sized set, plus packs of forks and spoons for home use.
4. Love Mae Studio This company takes sustainability a step further by using bamboo fibers—bi-products from the bamboo industry—to create their adorable and colorful tableware. From divided plates to cups and utensils, Love Mae Studio’s products bring a fun pop of color and whimsy to your child’s mealtime.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a powerhouse material: durable, non-toxic, BPA-free, and fully recyclable. Best of all, most stainless steel products are dishwasher safe, making them super convenient for busy families. They’re particularly great for lunchboxes and meal prep.
1. U-Konserve U-Konserve offers a range of circular and square stainless steel containers in different sizes, along with tumblers and stainless steel straws. Their products are available in various collections if you want to mix and match.
2. LunchBots Known for their rectangular, bento-style boxes, LunchBots offers options with anywhere from 1 to 5 sections. They also have dip containers, thermoses, and other individual pieces that work for kids and adults alike. My spouse and I are even considering getting some for ourselves!
3. PlanetBox For a complete all-in-one solution, PlanetBox makes stainless steel bento boxes with built-in compartments. They also offer a range of accessories, including utensils, dip containers, and cloth napkins, so you can personalize your child’s lunchbox to their style.
With back-to-school season approaching, now’s the perfect time to stock up on plastic-free lunch essentials. Whether you go for bamboo or stainless steel, these alternatives offer a safer, more sustainable way to feed your little ones. Plus, they’re adorable and durable, making mealtime easier and more fun for everyone.
Looking for some inspiration on how to pack those lunches? Check out the Instagram accounts of some of these brands for fun, creative ideas:
Happy eating, and here’s to making healthier, eco-friendly choices for your family!
Note: I am not affiliated with any of these companies or products.
This post is an edited version of an original blog post I previously published.
Comentarios